Egyptian football powerhouse, Al Ahly, are grappling with having to battle to retain star midfielder Aliou Dieng after openly declaring readiness to switch to Spanish outfit Valencia in the current transfer window.
Valencia, who are keen on bolstering their squad for the remainder of the campaign has seen their initial offer of 500,000 euros rejected by Al Ahly, as they seek to keep the midfielder beyond his current contract.
Despite seeing their offer rejected, the Spanish giants continue to push for the acquisition of the Mali international, viewing him as the ideal player to solidify their midfield amid inconsistent performance in the current campaign.
Africasoccer.com has learnt the Egyptian giants are still holding on to the midfielder, with manager Jess Thorup considers him as key member of his project.
Thorup is determined to keep Dieng, with Al-Ahly hoping to settle down contractual issues in the next six months.
Dieng has made eighteen appearances for the Egyptian club across all competitions this season but has yet to register a goal or assist.
He joined Al Ahly in July 2019 on a five-year contract and has since established himself as a key member of the team. He has won several titles with the club, including the Egyptian Premier League, CAF Champions League, and CAF Super Cup.
At the international level, Dieng has represented Mali in several tournament including the Africa Cup of Nations.
